2027: APC leaders reject outcome of Lagelu LG congress, demand review of process

According to the petition, stakeholders across the 14 wards had agreed on a consensus list aimed at promoting unity within the party at the grassroots level. The group, however, stated that the outcome did not reflect that agreement.

The petition read, "We, the concerned leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagelu Local Government, hereby express our deep dissatisfaction and strong protest over the outcome of the recently conducted party congress in the local government. It is both sad and unfortunate that despite our earlier petitions and submissions before the Appeal Panel, the grievances of the majority of stakeholders have been ignored.

"Recent developments clearly indicate a deliberate attempt by certain individuals to destabilize and weaken the party structure in Lagelu Local Government. The collective decision of party leaders across 14 wards, who in good faith agreed on a harmonized list of executive members to promote unity and cohesion, was unjustly overturned. This was done through the imposition of a list by an individual acting in connivance with external forces outside the local government.

"We categorically reject any form of imposition of party executives by any elected official. The autonomy of the party at the grassroots must be respected, and the voices of genuine party leaders within Lagelu Local Government must not be silenced.

"It is also a matter of record that, but for the internal crisis within the opposition, plans had been perfected for his defection from the APC. Furthermore, his consistent actions, particularly the deliberate stifling of party meetings within Lagelu Local Government, form part of a calculated effort to weaken and destabilize the party from within.

In light of the foregoing, we make the following demands:

"An immediate review of the outcome of the Lagelu Local Government congress.

“Recognition and adoption of the authentic harmonized list of Local Government Executives as approved by the National Headquarters in Abuja. Strict implementation of the harmonized list for Ward Executives as approved by the National Headquarters in Abuja.

"A clear directive from the state leadership prohibiting any form of imposition of party executives by individuals, regardless of status or office.

We warn that the continued disregard for due process and party unity may have serious consequences for the strength and electoral prospects of the APC in Lagelu Local Government.

"We remain committed to the ideals of the party and urge the leadership at the state level to act swiftly and decisively in the interest of justice, fairness, and unity".

However, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Wasiu Olawale Sadare, confirmed that the leadership was aware of concerns raised in some local government areas. He said efforts were ongoing to address the issues.

“We are aware of grievances in some places. There are complaints and challenges, and the party is working around the clock to resolve them. Members are encouraged to remain patient as established mechanisms are being applied to address all concerns,” he said.